Michelle Velez , LISW

Michelle Velez is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) who brings 14 years of experience to her clinical work. She focuses on common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, and coping with life changes. Michelle writes and talks plainly so people can quickly understand what to expect in sessions.

She centers sessions on each person's story and current needs. Michelle listens for patterns around attachment, abandonment, control, and codependency, and then helps clients practice different ways of responding. Sessions include talking through emotions, learning communication skills, and trying small behavior changes to reduce stress.

Michelle pays attention to how life roles and work pressures affect wellbeing. She often helps people who feel empty, stuck after a breakup, or overwhelmed by caregiver duties or substance-related difficulties. She also supports those coping with domestic violence and dissociation by focusing on practical steps and safety planning when needed.

Her style is warm and nonjudgmental. Michelle aims to make therapy feel manageable and realistic. She helps people build self-compassion and stronger connections with others.

Michelle practices in Ohio and conducts sessions in English. She incorporates a multicultural perspective and is mindful of how identity and background shape each person's experience. To begin, she guides clients through clear, step-by-step next actions so getting started is straightforward.

Evidence-based approaches and online care

Michelle uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help people manage symptoms and build new skills. One common approach focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and testing new ways of responding to worry and low mood, helping with anxiety and depression. Another approach emphasizes understanding attachment and relational patterns so clients can improve communication and feel more secure in relationships.

Choosing the right approach is collaborative. Michelle works with each person to decide which methods fit best based on their goals, history, and what feels comfortable. She adjusts the plan as therapy progresses so it stays relevant and useful.

Online sessions take place via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to offer flexibility. Video helps when visual cues matter, phone calls can be simpler when bandwidth is limited, and chat or text can be used for brief check-ins or when writing feels easier. These options make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule and to maintain continuity between appointments.